February

February in Kansas City is usually a transition month, that is, the later days of the month begin to bring warmer temperatures, sunnier days, and improved dispositions for gardeners. While snow and ice are still possible, their frequency and intensity are generally waning. With the arrival of warmer days, fall planted bulbs begin to appear, perennials show fresh new foliage at their bases, and a few very early performers are in bloom. February can be a critical month for the health of plants as they transition from dormancy to early growth; that is why ensuring the landscape is well watered emerging from the deep freeze should be on the top of every landscape caretakers list. As the ground thaws, be sure to water areas that are dry, paying particular attention to evergreens, whose foliage continues to grow and process nutrients even when the ground is frozen. Many perennials and ornamental grasses look “shabby” by this time of winter, but resist the urge to trim them or remove ugly brown leaves. That ugly top growth is protecting the delicate new emerging leaves; even the toughest perennials like liriope can be severely damaged by sudden freezes if their “winter coat” is removed.
 
This month is one of the best for pruning and trimming deciduous trees and shrubs. With no leaves to hide problems, and branching structures plainly visible, gardeners have a great opportunity to make those “kindest cuts”. (The warmer days also make it a little nicer to be outside and climb the ladder!) If tree trimming is not your thing, call Greenleaf and let the pros do it for you.
 
Continue feeding and watering the birds and take time to look through those seed and plant catalogs that clog your mailbox this time of year. There are always new and interesting plant varieties to try in your yard, and mentioning those to your designer will bring even more excitement to the spring gardening season!